Asheville, North Carolina holds the distinction of being the only town in the world wherein I came across an elderly gentleman who asked me where the “shindig” was. The shindig, I came to learn, was in reference to an impromptu bluegrass festival the town was having, and a while later we came upon the same gentleman busy ripping it up on the spoons. A pity he was occupied as such, since judging by his appearance, he may well have witnessed the Civil War and I have some nagging questions on the subject I would have liked to ask him.
They say the South will Rise again, and it may well start with the Asheville, North Carolina Cogal. @Anjin-san is hosting an impromptu one since @gaswepass will be traveling to Asheville the later part of March and the two thought they’d link up for a ride. For any Velominati within travelling distance of the Southeast, I can vouch first-hand that this is some seriously beautiful country, perfect for riding – if you don’t believe me, ask whoever organized the routes for the Tour de Trump and Tour DuPont back in the 90’s. Not to mention the weather will be heating up, and the Blue Ridge Mountains will be showing signs of Spring.
99 km, 1033 m climbing
Date: March 30, 2012
Start: REI- Asheville at precisely V past 10
Categorization: Casually Deliberate, Rule VV
This ride is going to be hilly, but we are avoiding the big mountains in favor of rolling terrain that is more conducive to building camaraderie among our fellow Velominati. There are numerous bail out points on this route, but if you aren’t familiar with the area your chances of getting lost or finding yourself on a killer climb are high.
Route and location details on the Cogal Event Page.
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Come one, come all, this is going to be a seriously fun ride with goods times after. Any questions please feel free to shoot me an e-mail at dnolletti@stonypoint.com
Thanks for posting Frank!
This will be a gorgeous ride in a lovely - and really ideal - part of the country for riding. My in-laws live just down the road in Hendersonville where we spent New Years. Driving around site seeing I was so completely bummed I didn't have my bike. Rouleur - Puncheur - Grimpeur it's got it all. I wish I could make it. Have fun.
You could win some points suggesting to your spouse that you go visit the in-laws... Next time you are in the area please let me know so we can go for a spin!
Yes -- sure that I will make plans to join you. The time to ride is when people are ready to ride! Will aim to arrive early (9:30). Thanx for posting! And guessing 3 to 4 hrs in the saddle ?? And a 23s or 25s on the back ??
@Chipomarc
there's no lack of clarity. Now, it's a party!
@UNPULL
Either tire choice will be fine. I'll be on 23s. The roads are in pretty good shape. There is one technical fast descent on the back side of Bearwallow Rd. that will test your skills- I go pretty easy on that one so bring what works for you on the backside of the hills. I'll be at REI early as well... look for the V-Kit!
@UNPULL
Oh yeah, it'll be a good 4 hours. There are a couple of places to refill bottles and grab a snack along the route... No espresso, more like Mt. Dew and candy bars, but food none the less...
no espresso? awww bullshit!
@Anjin-san
Oh, I was anticipating a 23 sprocket or 25 sprocket on the back of the cassette -- not tire width. My short-slang-speak mis-spoken comment.